The bill HB 186-FN-A proposes the legalization, regulation, and taxation of cannabis in New Hampshire, allowing individuals aged 21 and older to use cannabis legally while establishing a framework for licensing cannabis establishments. Key provisions include prohibiting sales to minors, maintaining the illegality of driving under the influence of cannabis, and ensuring consumer safety through product testing and labeling. The bill introduces new legal language to create a Cannabis Fund and a Substance Misuse Prevention, Treatment, and Recovery Fund, with a portion of tax revenue from cannabis sales allocated to support education and treatment programs. It also modifies existing laws related to the sale of alcoholic beverages and illegal drugs, deleting certain language regarding valid identification for alcohol purchases and adding new definitions and regulations specific to cannabis.

Additionally, the bill establishes a Cannabis Commission to oversee the regulation and licensing of cannabis establishments, including provisions for the manufacture and sale of cannabis accessories. It outlines a fee schedule for various types of cannabis licenses and sets health and safety regulations for cannabis products. The bill mandates that retail cannabis stores provide educational materials about the risks associated with cannabis use and establishes penalties for violations. It also introduces a new tax structure for cannabis sales, integrating it into the existing tax framework while ensuring that revenue is directed to public health initiatives. Overall, HB 186-FN-A aims to create a structured and regulated environment for cannabis use and commerce in New Hampshire, addressing public health and safety concerns while promoting responsible use.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 6:12, 179:8, 318-C:4, 318-B:26, 318-B:2-c, 265-A:43, 78-A:1, 78-A:3, 78-A:4, 78-A:7, 78-A:26, 126-X:1, 126-X:7, 126-X:8, 292:7, 293-A:9, 304-C:149, 318-B:1